XCambo

The ancient maya city of X’Cambo (“Heavenly Crocodile”, or “Trading Place”) located along the Uaymitun-Telchac coastal road was strongly influenced by the maya cities of Izamal and Tho’ (today Merida).

This city was a salt distribution center during the Late Preclassic Period (100 b.C. 250 a.C.), growing in importance during the Early Classic Period (250-600 a.C.) and for more than a thousand years. Today it still is a salt producer.

The architecture of X’Cambo reveals it has passed though various stages; however the most characteristic features are those of the Early Classic Period seen in the Peten and Megalithic or Izamal Style. These are characterized by scaled pyramids, the use of rounded corners, faces with enormous masks modeled in stucco and painted, and the use of large blocks of stone in walls and staircases, among others. X’Cambo is considered a place of pilgrimage and homage to the Virgin of X’Cambo who, according to tradition, appeared in this site over 50 years ago and in whose honor a chapel was built over prehispanic buildings. In addition to its historic importance, the natural surroundings make X’Cambo a tranquil and inviting place, it should certainly be high on any visitors “to do” list.